Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic 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 had faith and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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