Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."