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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous 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 sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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