Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind 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 remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided 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 typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"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."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."