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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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