Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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 injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on 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 the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds 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 meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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