Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now 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 speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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