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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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