Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer 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, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

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

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run 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 country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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