Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."