Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

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

And the sole English striker to better 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 Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise 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 inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."