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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better 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 Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"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 edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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