Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious 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 was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations 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.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

"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 may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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