Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo 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 is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"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 natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed 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 return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

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