Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

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

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

World Cup Question

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

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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