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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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