Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable 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 hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

His six-game scoring streak puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit 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 Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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