Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run 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 this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention 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 continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."