Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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