Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

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

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think 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 long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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