Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive 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 never managed a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."