Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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