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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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