Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight 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, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 long time," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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