Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic 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 persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

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

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