Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of 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 neat 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 resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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