Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, 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 only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve 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 rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge 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."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."