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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

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

His six-game scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

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

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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