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

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

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

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

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

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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