Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in elite 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"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 penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."