Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable 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 marred by injuries in its latter stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for 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 keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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