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

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

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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