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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."