Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak 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 explained it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains 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 behind Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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