Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel 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 considerable period," 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

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

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."