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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as only 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 lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers 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 while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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