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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

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

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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