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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever 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 turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

"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 out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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