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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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