Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer 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 period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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