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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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