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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he continues 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, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

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

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