Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on 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 this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

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

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "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 as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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