Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."