Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive 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 top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."