Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous 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 sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues 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 supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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