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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the only 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.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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