Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

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

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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