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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

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

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."