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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups 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 little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous 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 while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."