Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

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

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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