Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

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

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."