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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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