Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined 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.

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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