Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

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

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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