Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious 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 of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked 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 this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

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

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