Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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