Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major 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 classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."