Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains 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 behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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