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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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 injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

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

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

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

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