Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever 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 box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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