Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

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

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers believe 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 considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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