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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence places 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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