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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run places 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent 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 fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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