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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded 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 speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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