Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 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 maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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