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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

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

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping 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," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration 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 maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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