Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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