Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."