Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly 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 outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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