Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration 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 remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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