Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

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

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, 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 stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to 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 added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."