Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak sees 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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