Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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 setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy 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 classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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