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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring run puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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