Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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