Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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 injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has 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 flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith 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 league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts think 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 long time," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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