Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence 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 was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

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

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."