Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

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

And the only English striker to better 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 recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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