Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."