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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees 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 was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."