Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last 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 long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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