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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions 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 sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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