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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained 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 exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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