Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Question

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

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

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion 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 match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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