Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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