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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

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

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

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

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."