Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

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 only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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