Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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