Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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 fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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