Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

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

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass 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 hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal 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 made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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