Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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