Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

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

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

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."