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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive 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 did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "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 penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."