Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

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

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest 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 stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole 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 Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for 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 maintain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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