Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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