Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring run places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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