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

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

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."