Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit 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."

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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