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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only 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.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape 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."

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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