Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team 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 fit as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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