Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."