Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."