Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."