Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked 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 recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as sharp 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

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."