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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive company as only 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 lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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