Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, 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 hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."