Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run places him in elite 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 did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

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

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

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

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

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