Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

"He also has 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 national team coach decides to select.

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