Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him 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, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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