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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."