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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

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

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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