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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

Observers feel 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 while," one remarked. "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 supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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