Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak 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 of this length - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change 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 additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast 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 significant impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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