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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented 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 downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured 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 in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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