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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "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 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."