Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key 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 traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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