Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

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

And the sole English striker to better 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?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, 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 come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."