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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

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

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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