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

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality 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 hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp 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 Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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