Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."