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

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

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

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."