Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality 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 purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"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."

Fierce Rivalry

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

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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