Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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