Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, 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 said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."