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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable 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 hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only 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 lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever 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 fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as sharp 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 supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."