Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious 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 did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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