Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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