Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

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

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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