Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era 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 hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic 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 hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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