Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

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

Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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