Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent 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 popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

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

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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