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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."