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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

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

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead 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 said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."