Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

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

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

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

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England return.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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