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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, 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 edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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