Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "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 box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."