Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced 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 had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts think 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 considerable period," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."