Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better 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 has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent 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 popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through 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 believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."