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

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

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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