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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given 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 classic centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge 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 finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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