Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

And the sole 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?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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