Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious 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 did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."