Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined 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.

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

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered 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, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has 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 major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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