Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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 matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as in shape 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."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

"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 might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."