Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a classic 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 persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

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

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