Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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