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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England return.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

"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 could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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