Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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