Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."