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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for 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 keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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