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

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

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

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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