Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class 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 popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting 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 keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

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

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