Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

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

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, 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 depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."