Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal 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 instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

"He also has the edge 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 include.

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