Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted 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 challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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