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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

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

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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