Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good 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 fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, 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 said.

"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 head coach decides to include.

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