Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, 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 leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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