Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as 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 spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits 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 considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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