Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak 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 did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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