Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

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

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely 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 matches.

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts 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 long time," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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