Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two individual 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"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."