Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - 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 produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal 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 timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical 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 believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage 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 major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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