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

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

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just 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 of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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