Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as just 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 this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

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

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."