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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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