Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, 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 outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

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

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