Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as only 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 longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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