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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

His six-game scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."