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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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