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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite 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 did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic 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 hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, 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 said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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