Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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