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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape 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."

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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