Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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