Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

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

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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