Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind 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 clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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