Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional 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 downs. 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, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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