Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country 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 maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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