Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

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

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

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

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