Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

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

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal 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 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change 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 traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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