Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

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

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in elite 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 this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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