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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer 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, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England return.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."