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

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

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years 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 this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."