Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer 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, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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