Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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 frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical 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 persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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