Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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