Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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