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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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