Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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