Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

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

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups 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 expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds 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 tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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