Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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