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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

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

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into 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 exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

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

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."