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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest 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 exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."