Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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 matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through 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 believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."