Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues 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 incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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