Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."