Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."