Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

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

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 backed myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."