Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

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

His six-match scoring run puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

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

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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