Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," 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

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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