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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top 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 free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely 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 outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up 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 natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."