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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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