Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only 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 Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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