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

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest remains 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he maintains 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 intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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