Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced 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 complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."