Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic 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 persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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