Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring run 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 did not achieve 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 embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional 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 downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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