Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious 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 did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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