Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical 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 voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably 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 previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"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."

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant 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 includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."