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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed 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 lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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