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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

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

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."