Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out 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 added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."