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

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

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

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

His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic 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 persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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