Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."