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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

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

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

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

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one remarked. "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 supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also holds 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 might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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