Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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