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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak 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 described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

"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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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