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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter 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 touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."