Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as fit 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."

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach 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 definitely has a chance."