Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

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

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