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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with 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 maintain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."