Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable 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 hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."