Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better 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 hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

"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 could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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