Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive 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 never managed a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."