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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

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

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."