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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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