Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

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

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

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

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