Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better 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?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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