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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer 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 spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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