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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as fit 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."

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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