Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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