Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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