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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious 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 of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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