Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

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

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

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with 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 standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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