Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence 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 never managed a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

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

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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