Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

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

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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