Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith 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.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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