Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played 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 maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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