Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

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

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