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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment 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 given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has 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 meaningful impact at a major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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