Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

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

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," 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, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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