Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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