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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic 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 had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."