Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for 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.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

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

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, 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 the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."