Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch 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 had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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