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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning 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 hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - 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 embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

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

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality 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 complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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