Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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