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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring run sees 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 never managed a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal 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 lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe 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 considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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