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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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 Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key 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 traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend 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 summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."