Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

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 blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"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 could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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