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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

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

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak places 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 this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."