Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak 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 aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "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 fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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