Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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