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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

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

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

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

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "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 supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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