Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only 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.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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