Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning 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 fitness issues in its final stages.

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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