Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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