Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

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

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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