Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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