Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on 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 latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided 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 typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as in shape 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."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."