Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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