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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured 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 voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."