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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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 injuries in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, 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 surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."