Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note 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 a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

"He also holds 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 could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."