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

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift 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 additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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