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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive 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 did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," 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

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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