Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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