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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional 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 ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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