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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on 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 analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."