Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment 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 a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

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

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

Analysts believe 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 said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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