Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run 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 recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby 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 typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."