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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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