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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

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

His six-match scoring run places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."