Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

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

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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