Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

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

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses 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."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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