Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, 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 currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge 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 major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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