Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning 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 injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic 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 persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one commented. "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 fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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