Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

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

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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