Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

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

And the sole English striker to outdo 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

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

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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