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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced 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 here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for 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 level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

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

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

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

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

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