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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick 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 hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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