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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."