Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring run places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."