Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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