Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"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 timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the advantage 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 head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."