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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading 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, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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 has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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