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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of 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 lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."