Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"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 instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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