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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic 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 mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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