Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious 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 did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

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

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front 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 get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the edge 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 England manager decides to select.

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