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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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