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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent 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 established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Dilemma

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

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

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains 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 as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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