Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two distinct 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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