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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division games this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

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

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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