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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."