Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

The England Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," 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

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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