Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus 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 touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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