Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

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

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