Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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