Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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