Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two individual 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 Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"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 instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country 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 form.

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."