Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think 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 continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

Yet, 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 seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend 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 concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."