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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed 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 downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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