Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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