Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured 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 expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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