Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions 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 last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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