Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

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 fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."

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

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