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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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