Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

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

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

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

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."