Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to 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.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England return.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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