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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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