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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

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

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

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

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

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

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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