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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided 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 classic centre-forward's goal."

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

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "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 as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."