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

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top 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, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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