Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

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

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree 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 explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

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

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."