Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix 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 sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."