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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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