Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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 fitness issues in its final stages.

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate 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 this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

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 depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."