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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has 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 significant impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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