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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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