Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

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

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "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 box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to 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 includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."