Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself 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 division.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."