Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

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

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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