Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

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

An Impressive 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 marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," 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

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."