Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning 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 fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."