Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced 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 backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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