Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful 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 include.

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