Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning 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 hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test 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 no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front 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 test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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