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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to 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, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural 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 added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."