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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct 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 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 latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as 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 get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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