Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult 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 really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical 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 hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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