Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in elite 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 did not achieve a run this long - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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