Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe 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 while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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