Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

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 blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has the edge 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 out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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