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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest 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 blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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 recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through 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 backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."