Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious 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 this long - his top is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole 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 Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

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

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