Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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