Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at 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.

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 aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted 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 downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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