Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

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

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful 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 England manager decides to take.

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