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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

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

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