Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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