Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places 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 was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted 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 highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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