Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

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

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."