Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach 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."