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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup 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 successive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

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

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there 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 "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

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

Pundits believe 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 while," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

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

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