Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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