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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured 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 sharp as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."