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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up 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 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more 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 lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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