Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

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

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-match 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 best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

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

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," 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

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

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

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