Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed 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 is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."