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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."