Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England return.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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