Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, 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.

A Stunning Revival

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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