Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

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

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