Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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