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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart 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 former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one said. "If he maintains 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 fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."