Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

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

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era 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 tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."