Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

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

"He is a traditional 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 highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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