Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," 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

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."