Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration 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 debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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