Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

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

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

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

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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