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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Question

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

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

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

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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