Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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