Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

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

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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