Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided 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 typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."