Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top 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 hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

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, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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