Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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