Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent 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 beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England recall.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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