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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better 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 Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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