Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years 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 difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 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 more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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