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

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest 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, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring run places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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