Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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