Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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