Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

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

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Analysts 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, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick 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 test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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