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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled 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 most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as fit 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."

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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