Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal 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 positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered 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 "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think 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 said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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