Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."