Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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