Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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