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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced 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 here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

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

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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