Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "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 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."