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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

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

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

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be 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 selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."