Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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