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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

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

Analysts point to 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, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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