Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious 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 never managed a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart 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 former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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