Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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