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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," 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

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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