Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer 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 blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning 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 just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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