Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, 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 signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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 Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."