Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."