Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented 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 ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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