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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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