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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal 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 made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."