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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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