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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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