Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach 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 certainly has a chance."