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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

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 blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just 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 of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

"He looks as fit 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

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."