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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

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 hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."