Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 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 maintain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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