Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed 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 highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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