Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

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

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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