Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only 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 Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

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

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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