Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."