Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

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

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers feel 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 commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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