Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest 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 injuries in its closing stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

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

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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