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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter 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 exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," 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

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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