Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

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

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable 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 positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical 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 persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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