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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

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

His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive 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 never managed a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers feel 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."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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