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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 backed myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent 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 fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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