Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

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

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

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

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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