Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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