Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer 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, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided 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 textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last 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 remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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