Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for 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.

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era 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 hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds 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 finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."