Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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