Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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