Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo 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 Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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