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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

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

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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