Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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 closing stages.

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-match 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring 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 maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of 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 takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."