Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal 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.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. 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 shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."