Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country 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 while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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