Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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