Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak 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 perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups 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 complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel 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 considerable period," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist 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 summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."