Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured 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 this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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