Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

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

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured 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 expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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