Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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