Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

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

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

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

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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