Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

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 blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart 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 made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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