Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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