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

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

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

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

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical 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 hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues 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 intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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