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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up 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 natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, 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 noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."