Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note 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 classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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