Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel 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 while," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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