Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds 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 is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."