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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation 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 consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted 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 lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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