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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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 matches.

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

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge 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 certainly has a chance."