Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart 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 beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen 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 speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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