Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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