Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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