Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. 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 expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

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

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