Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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