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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift 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 some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, 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 stated.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

Finally, 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 he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."