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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on 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 the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight 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, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced 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 this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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