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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish 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 backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, 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."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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