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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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