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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

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 hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."