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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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