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

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

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole 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.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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