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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate 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 run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

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

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."