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

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just 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 lasting this many games - his top is 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

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

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

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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