Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole 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 Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."