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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

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

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

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

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