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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "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 as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has 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 decisive impact at a major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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