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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

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

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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