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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever 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 made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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