Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

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