Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

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

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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