Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet 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 prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel 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 considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare 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 big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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