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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic 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 hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains 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 supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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