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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard 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, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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