Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."