Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain 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."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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