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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

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

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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