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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer 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, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

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

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