Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby 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 flick beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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