Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts 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 said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."