Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just 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 lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

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

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented 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 in shape as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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