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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled 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 last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

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

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