Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak puts 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 did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent 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 popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

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

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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 consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head 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 definitely has a chance."