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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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