Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "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 box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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