Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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