Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive 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 did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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