Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious 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 did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers feel 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 long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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