Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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