Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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