Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby 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 classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test 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 no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."