Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."