Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

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

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," 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

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach 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."