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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced 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 had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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