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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

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

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented 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 lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."