Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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 data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

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

Analysts think 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 while," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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