Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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 fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape 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."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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