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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure 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, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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