Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious 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 of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

International Dilemma

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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