Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal 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 natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," 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

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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