Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers 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 said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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