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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"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 nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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