Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "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 penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."