Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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 latter stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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