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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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