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

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

Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits 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 maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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