Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two distinct 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.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch 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 is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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