Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

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

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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