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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced 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 this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."