Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 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 consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

"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 could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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