Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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