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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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