Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."