Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

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

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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