Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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