Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence sees 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 never managed a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"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 made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there 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 "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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