Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest 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 period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the numbers 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 just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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