Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

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

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front 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 stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."