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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."