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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

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

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect 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 timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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