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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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