Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."