Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers behind his comeback 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 lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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