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

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

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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