Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up 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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."