Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

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

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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